I have very little knowledge of general automotives, so please forgive my ignorance... any help or suggestions are appreciated.

I have a 2001 4Runner that's had absolutely no problems so far. It's been taken in for all scheduled maintenance, and it has about 50000 miles on it. Today, it wouldn't start. The engine lights come on, the radio, headlights, etc, and it cranks. But, it sounds a bit off and the engine just won't turn over. It does the basic RRR-RRR sound. Something smells a little too.. it's not fuel, but I'm not sure what it smells like.

I poked around online for general "car won't start" suggestions. I tried listening for the fuel pump, but I can't really hear anything. I also tried taking off the oil cap and watching what happens when you crank the car (I read somewhere something in there should move?). I could see something was there, but it didn't do anything when we cranked the car.

Anyone have any suggestions? I'd really rather not have to get it towed, and knowing so little about cars, I don't want to get ripped off. Please help!

Have it towed to a garage who has been recommended to you. Get a recommendation from someone at work or a neighbor, preferably with a Toyota. If you're a female, bring along a male.

Thanks for the help. As it turns out, it was the battery. Seems kind of funny to get all worked up, and it's something that simple. Oh well. I learned that neighbors (even those a few houses down you don't even really know) can be awesome.

There is the reason for being a good neighbor. You find yours are also... :)

Well said bud.